Showing papers by "Cherie Armour published in 2023"
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors identify a consistent sexual consent definition and how current research examining USEs defines and measures sexual consent amongst university students. But, the lack of sexual consent forms the foundation of unwanted (and nonconsensual) sexual experiences (USEs).
Abstract: Lack of sexual consent forms the foundation of unwanted (and nonconsensual) sexual experiences (USEs), yet research suggests it is not well understood amongst university students. While the prevalence of USEs has been well documented within the university context, less is known about how sexual consent is defined or measured. This review aims to identify a consistent sexual consent definition and how current research examining USEs defines and measures sexual consent amongst university students. A systematic review of nine electronic databases (2000-2022) was conducted, and the results were assessed against inclusion criteria (e.g., studies had to focus exclusively on university students). Thirty-three articles were identified and reviewed against the study aims. Sexual consent was more often implicitly defined across measures and articles. Four themes were identified (incapacitation, use of force, use of threats, and lack of wantedness) across the implicit definitions but varied by study with some implicitly defining sexual consent within the context of a relationship. Only three studies explicitly defined sexual consent, referring to it as a willingness to engage in sexual behavior. Measures assessed sexual consent communication or, attitudes and behaviors that might predict sexual aggression. Two studies examined students' individual sexual consent conceptualizations. Sexual consent appears to be contextual so future research should examine the variability of sexual consent in student samples. Students may indeed rely on implicit sexual consent definitions (rather than explicit) but more research is needed. Lastly, researchers should take care to be clear on their sexual consent definitions, both in text and within measures.
TL;DR: In this article , a systematic review of qualitative VA help-seeking literature is conducted to understand VA enablers/barriers for those having ceased military employment, six databases were searched.
Abstract: The variation in the definition of a veteran, and the preference for quantitative methods, has created mixed findings regarding the process of veteran help-seeking (HS) for mental health/alcohol issues. To understand HS enablers/barriers for those having ceased military employment, a systematic review of qualitative HS literature is warranted. Six databases were searched. Data were analysed thematically. From 1,154 titles/abstracts screened, six studies elicited four themes: military culture, problem severity, the system, and relationships/support. Enablers/barriers were individual and group specific. Alcohol was often an initial HS barrier whereas mental health symptomology and peer/community support were enablers. Themes collectively suggest HS is a progressive journey. Many studies had reporting issues so fully assessing study quality was challenging. Limited qualitative studies exist concerning those having ceased service altogether. A qualitative approach is advantageous as underlying processes can be explored. Interventions could improve the HS process/journey, at individual and group/community levels.
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors explored whether there was a relationship between experiencing stressful life events in childhood and incarceration in adulthood (post-military service) among UK Armed Forces Veterans based in Northern Ireland (NI).
Abstract: LAY SUMMARY Experiencing stressful or traumatic events in childhood has been linked with negative outcomes later in adulthood, one of which is involvement with the criminal justice system. This study explored whether there was a relationship between experiencing stressful life events in childhood and incarceration in adulthood (post-military service) among UK Armed Forces Veterans based in Northern Ireland (NI). Some individuals may experience only one type of adversity, some may experience many types of adversities, and others may experience no adversity. This study used a statistical technique (latent class analysis) that allowed the authors to explore how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) varied among a sample of UK Armed Forces Veterans residing in NI. It revealed four groups of Veterans, each characterized by different types of experiences in childhood. The authors explored whether belonging to these groups increased the likelihood of incarceration, finding that those who experienced multiple adversities were at greater risk of incarceration after military service. Personnel involved in the care and support of military personnel should consider military personnel’s history of multiple ACEs.
12 Jan 2023
TL;DR: For example, this paper found that only 16% of 16-year-olds knew what coercive control meant and only 5% of those who were subjected to coercive control were female.
Abstract: Abstract Coercive control and related research have progressed significantly in the past number of years, with an ever-growing evidence base adding to its construct. However, currently there is a lack of evidence on young people’s knowledge and understanding of coercive control. We included a module of questions in the 2020 Northern Ireland Young Life and Life and Times survey ( n = 2,069) with the aim of capturing baseline measurable data on understanding of coercive control within intimate relationships among 16-year olds. Only 16% ( n = 325) of respondents had heard of the term coercive control and knew what it meant. Findings also revealed that females, compared to males, were less likely to have heard of coercive control. When the victim being subjected to the behaviours was portrayed as female as opposed to male there was stronger recognition of the associated risks, need for support, and the seriousness of the situation. Our study findings call to question young people’s knowledge of unhealthy intimate relationship behaviours beyond blatant and deliberate acts of harm such as those described in the coercive control scenarios. Gender disparities in awareness of coercive control across the study sample also give cause for concern given the increased risk of intimate partner violence among women and girls as well as lower reporting and help seeking among male victims. Results solidify the necessity for dedicated preventative and intervention efforts which focus on intimate relationships and reflect the diverse needs and experiences of young people. Supporting young people to act on their own behalf is an important step change to empowerment within their own intimate relationships.
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors systematically reviewed the literature, including research that included alcohol and had a clearly defined veteran population, and identified the enablers and barriers that exist for military veterans seeking to address their poor mental health.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE
Research exploring the enablers and barriers that exist for military veterans seeking to address their poor mental health has produced ambiguous results. To identify the enablers and barriers correctly, this study systematically reviews the literature, including research that included alcohol and had a clearly defined veteran population.
METHODS
Six databases were searched. Inclusion criteria specified that empirical studies related to veterans that had ceased military service and were seeking help for poor mental health and/or alcohol difficulties. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme and AXIS appraisal tools were used to assess quality and bias. A narrative synthesis approach was adopted for analysis. From 2044 studies screened, 12 were included featuring 5501 participants.
RESULTS
Forty-four enablers and barriers were identified, with thirty-two being statistically significant. Post-traumatic stress disorder had the greatest number of enabler/barrier endorsements to veterans seeking help. Depression, anxiety, experience and attitudes also acted as enablers/barriers. Most studies were of fair methodological quality. Limitations included that samples were skewed towards US army veterans. Little research exists concerning those that have ceased military service.
CONCLUSIONS
Veteran help-seeking is likely enabled by poor mental health symptomology and comorbidity, which suggests veterans reach a crisis point before they seek help. Further research on alcohol misuse and attitude formation is required. The field would also benefit from alternative study designs including qualitative studies with non-US participants.
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors synthesize what is known about eHealth targeting sexual assault survivors' psychosocial needs using a systematic scoping review methodology, and search five databases (CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and Scopus) were systematically searched for studies published from 2010 onwards using terms such as "sexual assault", "eHealth", "digital health", "telehealth", and variations thereof.
Abstract: Providing efficient psychosocial support for survivors of sexual assault is of critical societal importance. Around the globe, technology-based solutions (eHealth) are increasingly being used to accomplish this task, especially following COVID-19. Despite increased importance and reliance on eHealth for sexual assault, minimal efforts have been made to systematically synthesize research in this area. The present study therefore sought to synthesize what is known about eHealth targeting sexual assault survivors' psychosocial needs using a systematic scoping review methodology. To this end, five databases (CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and Scopus) were systematically searched for studies published from 2010 onwards using terms such as "sexual assault", "eHealth", "digital health", "telehealth", and variations thereof. Of the 6,491 records screened for eligibility, 85 studies were included in the review. We included empirical studies from all countries pertaining to eHealth for sexual assault for survivors 13 years or older. Many innovative eHealth applications for sexual assault exist today, and the included studies suggested that survivors generally experience eHealth positively and seem to benefit from it. Nevertheless, much more clinical and empirical work is needed to ensure accessible and effective solutions for all.
TL;DR: In this article , a study was conducted to determine the rates and correlates of psychological distress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among persons with physical disabilities in Cambodia and found that psychological distress was associated with pathological worry, rumination, and facets of mindfulness.
Abstract: Compared to the general population, persons with disabilities are at increased risk of poor mental health. The aim of this study was to determine the rates and correlates of psychological distress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among persons with physical disabilities in Cambodia.From July to December 2021 data were collected as part of a mental health screening programme for persons with physical disabilities who access prosthetic and orthotic services. Psychological distress was measured using the Kessler-10 (K-10) and PTSD using the PC-PTSD-5. Bivariate and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with levels of psychological distress and PTSD among this population.Our study found a high prevalence of psychological distress and PTSD in this patient cohort. Of the 213 participants, 31.5% were likely to be experiencing mild to moderate psychological distress indicative of a mental health disorder, with 13.6% likely to have a severe mental health disorder. Sixty-five percent of patients reported experiencing PTSD symptoms, with forty-six percent meeting the criteria for probable PTSD. Psychological distress was associated with pathological worry, rumination, and facets of mindfulness. Rumination and pathological worry were found to be significant predictors of psychological distress. PTSD symptoms were associated with pathological worry but not facets of mindfulness or rumination. Facets of mindfulness and pathological worry were found to be significant predictors of PTSD.Integration of mental health services within the disability sector is required to address psychological distress and PTSD symptoms among people with physical disabilities in Cambodia. Health system interventions, such as screening, referral, and the training of health providers, need to be strengthened. Further studies focussing on the psychosocial determinants of mental health of persons with disabilities in Cambodia are required.
TL;DR: In this article , the authors explore the correlates of auditory hallucination using a qualitative dataset consisting of unrestricted responses of patients about their lived experiences with mental illness. And they find that auditory hallucinations were independent of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours, and dissociation, in contrast with the literature.
Abstract: Previous research suggests that auditory hallucinations are prevalent within both the clinical and general populations. Yet, we know little about how these phenomena are associated with other psychopathology symptoms and experiences. The current study aids investigations towards preventing, predicting and more effectively responding to such distressing occurrences. There have been substantial efforts in the literature to propose models of auditory hallucination and attempts to verify them. However, many of these studies used survey methods that restrict the person's responses to a set of pre-defined criteria or experiences and do not allow exploration of potential important other symptoms beyond them. This is the first study to explore the correlates of auditory hallucination using a qualitative dataset consisting of unrestricted responses of patients about their lived experiences with mental illness.The study used a dataset consisting of 10,933 narratives from patients diagnosed with mental illnesses. For analysis, the study used correlation on the text-based data. This approach is an alternative to the knowledge-based approach where experts manually read the narratives and infer the rules and relationships from the dataset.This study found at least 8 correlates of auditory hallucination (small correlation coefficients), with the unusual ones being "pain." The study also found that auditory hallucinations were independent of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours, and dissociation, in contrast with the literature.This study presents an innovative approach to explore the possible associations between symptoms without the restrictions of (or outside the confines of) traditional diagnostic categories. The study exemplified this by finding the correlates of auditory hallucination. However, any other symptom or experience of interest can be studied similarly. Potential future directions of these findings are discussed in the context of mental healthcare screening and treatment.
TL;DR: In this article , the authors compared networks of 13 lifetime mania symptoms in 34,226 participants from the United Kingdom's National Institute for Health and Care Research BioResource with and without lifetime binge eating and found that people with binge eating endorsed every mania symptom significantly more often than those without binge eating.
Abstract: OBJECTIVES
People with bipolar disorder who also report binge eating have increased psychopathology and greater impairment than those without binge eating. Whether this co-occurrence is related to binge eating as a symptom or presents differently across full-syndrome eating disorders with binge eating is unclear.
METHODS
We first compared networks of 13 lifetime mania symptoms in 34,226 participants from the United Kingdom's National Institute for Health and Care Research BioResource with (n = 12,104) and without (n = 22,122) lifetime binge eating. Second, in the subsample with binge eating, we compared networks of mania symptoms in participants with lifetime anorexia nervosa binge-eating/purging (n = 825), bulimia nervosa (n = 3737), and binge-eating disorder (n = 3648).
RESULTS
People with binge eating endorsed every mania symptom significantly more often than those without binge eating. Within the subsample, people with bulimia nervosa most often had the highest endorsement rate of each mania symptom. We found significant differences in network parameter statistics, including network structure (M = 0.25, p = 0.001) and global strength (S = 1.84, p = 0.002) when comparing the binge eating with no binge-eating participants. However, network structure differences were sensitive to reductions in sample size and the greater density of the latter network was explained by the large proportion of participants (34%) without mania symptoms. The structure of the anorexia nervosa binge-eating/purging network differed from the bulimia nervosa network (M = 0.66, p = 0.001), but the result was unstable.
CONCLUSIONS
Our results suggest that the presence and structure of mania symptoms may be more associated with binge eating as a symptom rather than any specific binge-type eating disorder. Further research with larger sample sizes is required to confirm our findings.
TL;DR: In this article , the authors examined the relationship between C-PTSD and other mental health disorders in a UK Armed Forces veteran sample and found that the experience of complex post-traumatic stress disorder may be commonly associated with elevated risk for several mental ill-health comorbidities.
Abstract: ABSTRACT Background: There is evidence to suggest that the experience of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) may be commonly associated with elevated risk for several mental ill-health comorbidities. Objective: The current study seeks to contribute to the growing literature on C-PTSD comorbidity by examining the relationship between C-PTSD and other mental health disorders in a UK Armed Forces veteran sample. Method: This study used data from the Northern Ireland Veterans’ Health and Wellbeing Study (NIVHWS). The effective sample consisted of 638 veterans (90.0% male). Tetrachoric correlations examined the relationship between C-PTSD caseness and other mental health outcomes. Latent class analysis was then conducted, determining the optimal number and nature of classes in the sample in relation to C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, and suicidality. Results: C-PTSD caseness (i.e. probable diagnosis) was found to be significantly associated with positive caseness of depression, anxiety, and suicidality. Overall, four latent classes emerged, with each of these classes characterized by varying degrees of comorbidity: a ‘Resilient/Low Comorbidity’ class, a ‘Lifetime Suicidal’ class, a ‘PTSD Polymorbid’ class, and a ‘C-PTSD Polymorbid’ class. Conclusions These findings support and extend previous results indicating the highly comorbid nature of C-PTSD. C-PTSD may be considered a highly polymorbid condition, increasing the risk for multiple mental health pathologies concurrently.
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TL;DR: In this paper , the authors employed meta-analytic methods to summarize the role of one hypothesized antecedent of adult alexithymia, namely child maltreatment, and found that such maltreatment was positively related to overall alexity, while emotional abuse (r = .18 [.13, .23]) and physical neglect (R = .21 [.15, .22]) were the strongest predictors.
Abstract: Background: Alexithymia is a personality trait that refers to di ffi culties identifying and describing one ’ s emotions. Growing evidence suggests that alexithymia is a key transdiagnostic risk factor. Despite its clinical importance, the etiology of alexithymia is largely unknown. Objective: The present study employs meta-analytic methods to summarize fi ndings on the role of one hypothesized antecedent of adult alexithymia, namely child maltreatment. Method: We conducted the meta-analysis strictly adhering to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols) statement. We obtained 99 e ff ect-size estimates from 78 independent studies that reported both childhood maltreatment history and adult levels of alexithymia. These studies involved a total of 36,141 participants. Results: Using correlation coe ffi cients as our e ff ect size index, we found that child maltreatment was positively related to overall adult alexithymia (r = .23 [.19, .27]). Notably, emotional abuse (r = .18 [.13, .23]), emotional neglect (r = .21 [.16, .26]), and physical neglect (r = .18 [.15, .22]) were the strongest predictors. E ff ects were moderated by gender, a ffi liation with clinical vs. non-clinical samples, and publication status. Conclusions: Overall results were robust to publication bias and the presence of outliers. These fi ndings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the complex connection between di ff erent types of child maltreatment and alexithymia, providing greater insight into the early environmental in fl uences on alexithymia.